A priest was viciously assaulted at a church, leading to the discovery of a murdered man nearby, with authorities linking the two events. The man’s body was found in a residence in Marian Park, Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, on Sunday afternoon. This discovery followed Canon John Murray sustaining severe injuries in an assault involving a bottle at a church a few miles away. The elderly priest was attacked when asked to hear a confession before being struck on the head with a bottle at St Patrick’s Church. Subsequently, a man was reported dead at a location around noon on Sunday, leading to the arrest of a 30-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
Canon Murray, in his 70s, is currently in critical condition in the hospital due to the attack, which investigators believe is connected to the murder. The incident took place as the priest was preparing for his final mass before retirement and was assaulted in the church grounds by a man who entered St Patrick’s Church and assaulted him with a bottle at approximately 10:10 am.
Superintendent Norman Haslett, district commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, highlighted the early stages of the investigation and the potential connection between the assault and the murder. He urged anyone with information to contact the authorities. Detective Chief Inspector McBurney described the attack on the priest as shocking and brutal, appealing for information from the public.
Fr Eddie McGee, a spokesperson for the Diocese of Down and Connor, provided details on the incident involving Canon Murray, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. He expressed concern over the attack on a vulnerable priest during his service to the community. Fr McGee also conveyed prayers and support for Canon Murray and the affected families.
In response to the tragic events, local political figures and community members expressed shock and offered condolences to the victims and their families. The Sinn Fein MP for South Down, Chris Hazzard, and DUP MLA for South Down, Diane Forsythe, condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need for peace and unity in society. Alliance South Down MLA Andrew McMurray expressed sympathy for the victims and gratitude towards the police for their swift response.
Authorities urged anyone with information to contact the police and provided reference numbers for the respective cases. Additionally, a vigil was held at St. Brigid’s Church in Downpatrick, drawing hundreds of attendees to honor the victims and show solidarity with the community.